In this episode of ‘If I Were the Minister for Education,’ I discuss the tumultuous journey of the Irish Primary Language Curriculum since its inception in 2016. I explain the confusing and unworkable nature of the curriculum, which stemmed from panic-induced reforms after a minor dip in Ireland’s PISA scores in 2009. I highlight the chaotic development process plagued by bullying allegations and mass resignations within the NCCA. I describe the practical challenges teachers faced with the original curriculum’s complex and unmanageable format, likening it to an accordion. Despite efforts by the PDST to provide clarity, the curriculum remains inadequately understood and halfway implemented a decade later. I underscore the recurring patterns of vagueness and panic-driven educational reforms in Ireland, leaving teachers to navigate and adapt to these changes on their own.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

00:47 The Primary Language Curriculum: A Decade of Confusion

02:15 The Roots of the Curriculum Chaos

05:07 The PISA Panic and Its Aftermath

09:56 The Chaotic Development Process

15:13 The Unmanageable Curriculum Rollout

21:13 Teachers’ Struggles and Adaptations

23:55 Reflections and Future Concerns

27:08 Conclusion and Farewell

I couldn’t think of a better title to this week’s podcast which is all about admin work. Unfortunately, the biggest change to my job in the last decade or two is the crazy increase in administrative work and constant additions to my workload. My brain physically can’t hold it all so I decided to make it my aim to outsource my brain. This episode goes through some techy tools to help with admin. If nothing else, it will make a good sleeping aid.

In this episode I offer a comprehensive review of Irish primary education for the year 2025. I cover various educational policies, initiatives, and challenges, spanning teacher shortages, special education crises, the hot meal scheme, religious influences in schools, and the controversial snow days. I discuss new policies introduced by the government, the effectiveness of the Department of Education, and the impact of external events like the conflict in Gaza on school environments. Despite the challenges, I’m, as always, cautiously optimistic for 2026!

00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview

00:50 Annual Review of the Primary School Year

02:49 January: Snow Days and New Government

07:09 February: Controversies and Challenges

11:08 March: The Cluster Games and Special Education

16:37 April: Teacher Burnout and Financial Crisis

22:52 May: Religion in Schools Debate

26:45 June: End of School Year and ICT Grant

27:52 July: Teacher Shortages and National Convention

31:24 August: Secretary and Caretaker Strikes

34:44 September: Strike Lessons and Hot Meal Scheme

37:34 October: School Census and Budget

39:59 November: IPPN Conference and New Minister

41:44 December: Reflections and Looking Forward